States Caught In the Act: Doing Some Things Right

• In Event: Latest Finding from OJJDP’s Data Analysis Program

Abstract

The last several years has been a time of reform in juvenile justice. Some of this reform has been driven by advocacy groups bashing states’ practices and outcomes with data drawn from national data collections and other sources. In many instances the critiques are of the "throw the baby out with the bath water" variety, overlooking the things that states are doing right. This paper questions the validity of widespread bashing of modern-day statewide juvenile justice systems in the U.S. Several examples of important functions for which particular systems stand out are provided. These are highlighted as windows of opportunity to build upon constructive features, perhaps leading to even greater improvements.

Authors

• Melissa Sickmund, National Center for Juvenile Justice

• James C. (Buddy) Howell, National Gang Center

• John J. Wilson, Comprehensive Strategies for Juvenile Justice, LLC